About Kyiv History Kiev is the capital and the largest city of Ukraine, located in the north central part of the country on the Dnieper River. Kiev is an important industrial, scientific, educational and cultural centre of Eastern Europe. It is home to many high-tech industries, higher education institutions and world-famous historical landmarks. The city has an extensive infrastructure and highly developed system of public transport, including the Kiev Metro. 2 The name Kiev is said to derive from the name of Kyi, one of four legendary founders of the city (brothers Kyi, Shchek, Khoryv and sister Lybid'). During its history, Kiev, one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe, passed through several stages of great prominence and relative obscurity. The city may have been founded in the 5th century as a trading post, perhaps part of the land of the early Slavs. It gradually acquired eminence as the centre of Rus civilization, becoming in the tenth to twelfth centuries the political and cultural capital of Rus', a semi-feudal confederation of Slavic principalities to the east of Poland. Completely destroyed during the Mongol invasion in 1240, the city lost most of its influence for the centuries to come. It was a provincial capital of marginal importance in the outskirts of the territories controlled by its powerful neighbors: first the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, followed by Poland and Russia. The city prospered again during the Russian industrial revolution in the late 19th century. After the turbulent period following the Russian Revolution of 1917, from 1921 onwards Kiev was an important city of the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, and, from 1934, its capital. During World War II, the city again suffered significant damage, but quickly recovered in the post-war years remaining the third largest city of the Soviet Union. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union and the Ukrainian independence of 1991, Kiev remained the capital of Ukraine. Entertainment There are many bars, cafes, night clubs, where you can go with AIESEC members for relaxation. Also can organize external Language Exchange Clubs where you can learn Russian or make discussions in English. Our members extracurricular participate in Toastmasters Club and other NGOs, are involved in projects, so it will be easy to find someone with similar interests. Also there are Catholic churches and an Indian temple, Japanese Cultural Center for instance, where interns from different countries can find their native culture. With friends it is common to go to chill in parks, cafes, do ice-skating, watch movies, do sightseeing around the city. So if you get bored, just go to main street Kreschatik and enjoy the city with someone from our LC! AIESEC in Kyiv, Ukraine | office.kyiv@aiesec.net | Pr. Peremohy 54/1, of 515

Climate Kiev has a continental humid climate. The warmest months are June, July, and August, with mean temperatures of 13.8 to 24.8 C (56.9 to 76.7 F). The coldest are December, January, and February, with mean temperatures of 4.6 to -1.1 C (23.7 to 30.0 F). The highest ever temperature recorded in the city was 39.4 C (103.0 F) on 31 July 1936. The coldest temperature ever recorded in the city was -32.2 C (- 26.0 F). Snow cover usually lies from mid-November to the end of March, with the frost-free period lasting 180 days on average, but surpassing 200 days in recent years. There are four seasons during the year: winter (December-February), spring (March-May), summer (June August), fall (September- 3 November). Please bring appropriate clothes depending on the season when you arrive. Modern Kiev Modern Kiev is a mix of the old and the new, seen in everything from the architecture to the stores and to the people themselves. Experiencing great population growth between the 1970s and the mid-'90s, the city has continued its consistent growth after the turn of the millennium. As a result, Kiev's "downtown" is a dotted contrast of new, modern buildings amongst the pale yellows, blues and grays of older apartments. Urban sprawl has gradually reduced, while population densities of suburbs has increased. The most expensive properties are located in the Pechersk, and Khreshchatyk areas. It is also prestigious to own a property in newly constructed buildings in the Kharkivskyi Raion or Obolon along the Dnieper. Ukrainian independence at the turn of the millennium has heralded other changes. Western-style residential complexes, modern nightclubs, classy restaurants and prestigious hotels opened in the centre. Music from Europe and North America started appearing on Ukrainian music charts. And most importantly, with the easing of the visa rules in 2005.Ukraine is positioning itself as a prime tourist attraction, with Kiev, among the other large cities, looking to profit from new opportunities. The centre of Kiev has been cleaned up and buildings have been restored and redecorated, especially the Khreshchatyk street and the Independence Square. Many historic areas of Kiev, such as Andriyivskyy Descent, have become popular street vendor locations, where one can find traditional Ukrainian art, religious items, books, game sets (most commonly chess) as well as jewelry for sale. State holidays 1 January New Years {Parties and fests all around with fireworks and huge celebration. AIESECers usually organize party and cook food together, drink and stay up until morning.} 7 January Christmas {More religious holiday. Families get together to have meal of 12 dishes. It is nice to be invited to have dinner with somebody and share holy atmosphere.} 8 March Womens Day {Men usually give plenty of flowers to women and behave with respect.} April (or May) Easter {People go to church to bless food in baskets and after that have meal together.} 1-2 May Labor Day {Nothing special happens. Free time to go to park or chill with family and friends.} 9 May Victory Day {Parades along the city and it is common to give flowers to veterans, go to Park of Glory and other parks.} 28 June Constitution Day {Some governmental events.} 24 August Independence Day {Parades, fireworks, celebrations, concerts all around the country.} AIESEC in Kyiv, Ukraine | office.kyiv@aiesec.net | Pr. Peremohy 54/1, of 515

International Time Ukraine has on time zone, GMT+2 hr. Daylight savings time is observed from the first Sunday in April to the last Sunday in October when you will need to advance your clocks by one hour. Transportation 4 Rail Information Kiev is connected to European and Asian cities via an extensive network of railways. The capitals train station is located in the centre of the city and is situated right next to the Vokzalna metro station. Train travel is the least expensive and most convenient way to reach just about any location. There are three comfort classes for long distance train travel: luxury-soft with two pull-out beds for more space, coupe-soft with four beds, and platskart with six beds per compartment. However, electric commuter trains, called elektropotyahy or elektrychky are usually outfitted with only hard wooden benches and no amenities. They are generally very crowded, especially on weekends and in the summer time when people travel to their summerhouses.It is always wise to bring your own toilet paper, soap, and supply of food and a drink. Option to check schedule is available on http://uz.gov.ua/?lng=uk in Ukrainian only. Subway The most convenient way of transport is subway. The official web page is under the link http://www.metro.kiev.ua/. Monthly ticket price for the subway is 95 UAH, and one ride costs 1.7 UAH. Kyiv metro has 4 lines and connects 8 of 10 city districts. To some of city parts it is better to go by buses, route buses (called marshrutka), trams, trolleybuses, prices in city transport is 1.5 UAH, sometimes though reaching 2.5 UAH per ride. Communication Post Office Post offices are located all around the city. At the Central Post Office you can buy stamps, post cards, use fax machines and make international calls. Post card to the world costs less than $ 1.00, to check services please go to http://www.ukrposhta.com/www/upost_en.nsf. Phones For calls in Kyiv, public telephones located all over the city require phone cards, which you can buy at every post office. The rates for phone calls to Europe are about $0.60 - $ 1.50 per minute. Calls to the United States are about $2.50 per minute. Almost all AIESECers use operator LIFE http://www.life.com.ua/ It offers the cheapest prices and you will be able to call abroad for low rates. AIESEC in Kyiv, Ukraine | office.kyiv@aiesec.net | Pr. Peremohy 54/1, of 515

Ukrainian numbers start from +38 (city or operator code) for Kyiv (XXX-XX-XX), for example +380446718133 is a land phone in Kyiv. Major mobile operators are Kyivstar (067, 096, 097, 098), MTS (050, 095, 066, 099), LIFE (063, 093), Beeline (068). Since the competition most of the operators offer free connection inside of network under some conditions. Usual expenses per month do not exceed $ 7.00 Medical Facilities Medical care in Ukraine is limited. The availability of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles, anaesthetics, and antibiotics has improved. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Foreign medical insurance is not always valid for Ukraine. Travellers have 5 found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage, including air evacuation coverage has proved to be useful. Money The Ukrainian national currency is the Gryvnya. However, it is preferable to bring Euro or USA dollars with you. You can exchange them in any major bank or at any exchange point around the city. You will identify those points by the name of if it is written in Ukrainian Language or if it is written in Russian Language. Changing U.S. dollars for Ukrainian Hryvnias or another currency is legal only at banks, currency exchange desks at hotels and at licensed exchange booths. Beware of changing money on the streets or with private individuals: it's illegal and it can be dangerous. Remember however that old or damaged bill may not be accepted or accepted under the lower rate. The "hard currency" stores only accept Hryvnias but almost all of them have a money exchange booth on the premises. Exchange rates To learn the current exchange rate of hryvna (UAH) to almost any currency check the following link: http://www.bank.gov.ua/kurs/engl/last_kurs1.htm Credit Cards Ukraine is a cash economy. Traveler's checks and credit cards however are in large usage in Kyiv American Express, MasterCard, and Visa are commonly accepted. A passport or diplomatic card may be required whenever a credit card is used. Customs regulations prohibit sending cash, travelers checks, personal checks, credit cards or passports through the international mail system to Ukraine. These items are regularly confiscated as contraband by customs authorities. Prices Kyiv is generally not very expensive city. Prices for clothes are more expensive than in the US or EU however. Food and drinks are quite affordable. To updated list of prices please visit http://www.tefl.com/home/col_survey.html?ci_id=88&tefl_session=9fad1961fc581111f947e98b26b81f 3d&x=1&y=1 AIESEC in Kyiv, Ukraine | office.kyiv@aiesec.net | Pr. Peremohy 54/1, of 515

taken between the hours of 1:00pm and 2:00pm. Most banks are open without breaks, Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 1:00pm. Shops and malls are open 24/7, excluding some cases. Electricity 220 volts, 50Hz is the standard electrical voltage throughout Ukraine. To use electrical appliances you will need a converter as well as an Eastern-European plug adapter. Etiquette 7 When visiting Ukraine, there are a few simple rules of etiquette that may be useful: If invited into a family home, it is traditional to bring a gift. A bottle of wine, a cake or flowers is customary. If there is a child in the house, it s appropriate to provide him/her with a small gift as well. If you bring flowers, make sure it is an uneven number of flowers. Do not shake hands across the threshold of a door. It is considered bad luck. When shaking hands, take of your gloves. Be prepared to remove your shoes upon entering a home. To keep apartments clean, most hosts will provide you with a pair of slippers. On public transportation, give up your seat to mothers with children, the elderly, or the infirm. At the entrance of upscale restaurants, expect that your coat, briefcase or baggage will be checked. When eating dinner at someones home, casual dress is accepted. Be ready to give toasts at dinner, for gusts are often asked to do so. Be prepared to accept all food and drink offered you when visiting friends. Ukrainians are known for their generosity when it comes to feeding others. Turning down food may be considered to be rude. In Orthodox churches, women wear scarves or hats, and men take off their hats. Check list (Dont forget to bring.) There are few things that you should not forget to include into your luggage when coming. We are going to give you some hints here: some typical sweets or dishes your National flag and all sort of presentation materials if you take any sort of medicine, bring the prescription with you if you wear glasses and contact lenses, also bring the prescription with you your dictionary, from your language into English or into Russian some recipes of your traditional dishes some small souvenirs. Many times families may host you and it would be nice if you can leave them some presents from your country Way from the airport Kyiv has two airports, however all flights usually are serviced in one Boryspil. Boryspil is also the city approximately 40 min to the east of Kyiv. If you arrive to Ukraine it is the best to take shuttle bus, schedule you can see here http://kbp.com.ua/english/transport/buses.-schedule.-stops.html It is more convenient for AIESEC members to pick up interns at train station (to which this shuttle goes), since it is connected to the subway. AIESEC in Kyiv, Ukraine | office.kyiv@aiesec.net | Pr. Peremohy 54/1, of 515

Visas to Ukraine Most citizens of other countries require a visa to travel to Ukraine. Citizens of EU, Switzerland and Liechtenstein: beginning with 1 September 2005 visas to Ukraine are not required for EU or Swiss citizens who enter Ukraine or transit through its territory for the period of time of up to 90 days with a valid travel passport. Citizens of USA and Canada: beginning with July 1, 2005 visas to Ukraine are not required for the US and Canadian citizens who enter Ukraine within six months after their previous trip to 10 Ukraine or transit through its territory for a period of up to 90 days with a valid American travel passport. The US citizens need to make sure that their current medical insurance has coverage in Ukraine. Citizens of Japan: beginning with August 1, 2005 visas to Ukraine are not required for the Japanese citizens who enter Ukraine or transit through its territory for a period time of up to 90 days with a valid Japanese travel passport. There are cases when visas to Ukraine are required for the US, Canadian, EU, Swiss, Japanese citizens. E.g. visas are required for the citizens who enter Ukraine with the purpose of employment, permanent residency, study and work at the diplomatic missions in Ukraine or with any other purpose if they are going to stay in Ukraine for more than 90 days. If you are a citizen of any other country or the rules above do not apply to your situation, then you need to apply for a Ukrainian visa at the consulate. No invitation letters are required for citizens of the US, Canada, Japan and Turkey for obtaining official, business, private, cultural, or sports visas. No visas are required for citizens of Mongolia and the countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (except Turkmenistan). You may apply for visa to Ukraine at the Consular/Visa Section of the Embassy of Ukraine. For the list of Ukrainian Embassies click here. AIESEC in Kyiv can provide you with an official invitation letter from the Ministry of Education or other, but we prefer not to deal with governmental stuff. For citizens of India and China visa process may take over one month. For all types of visas (business, private, tourist, transit etc.) the following documents should be submitted: completed visa application form for each applicant holding a separate passport or being included in the joint passport; fully valid passport/travel document ; two recent passport sized photographs; invitation; two separate postal orders (or company cheques) covering the handling charge and visa fee; contact telephone numbers of all applicants (work, home or mobile). The period of visa processing is 3-10 working days. AIESEC in Kyiv, Ukraine | office.kyiv@aiesec.net | Pr. Peremohy 54/1, of 515

About LC AIESEC in Kyiv was established first as a part of USSR in 1989 and then gained independence together with Ukraine in 1991. After 2008 Ukraine is in top 10 countries by exchange performance and membership. Kyiv, is not the strongest LC but the most financially sustainable and with most members 120 actively involved students. Every year AIESEC in Kyiv organizes nearly 15 projects and members work for specific projects with more interest than in functional area. Among those there are conferences on marketing, finance, IT, career days, long term soft skills workshops and social projects based on exchange. Executive board 2010-2011 is presented by: 11 LCP Yulia Palamarchuk VP ER Tetiana Kashevko ER Coor Vitaliy Bondarchuk Comm Coor Julia Bortnik VP OGX Daria Kogut VP ICX DT/ET Svitlana Kogut MT/TT ICX Coor Helen Kyryliuk VP TM Evgeniya Lukianets VP LC Development Iryna Nemyrovych For more information visit official LC KYIV wiki on myaiesec.net Contacts Office of AIESEC in Kyiv is situated on subway station Shuliavska on pr. Peremohy 54/1, of. 515 in Kyiv National Economic University. That building is usually used for LCMs every Friday at 18.30. mContact e-mail is office.kyiv@aiesec.net. AIESEC in Kyiv, Ukraine | office.kyiv@aiesec.net | Pr. Peremohy 54/1, of 515